Families in Wigan are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living and we know things are only going to get worse. That's why Wigan Council is working closely with community and voluntary sector partners to do whatever we can to help struggling families heat their homes and feed their children.

But we know that tackling the heating or eating challenge alone isn't enough!

Childhood is precious. The experiences children and young people are able to access in their youth provide the foundation for all future learning, behaviour, health, and success. That's why we are committed to ensuring all children and young people in Wigan continue to have access to the brilliant, life-affirming creative and cultural experiences, that will help them flourish.

The Lathums' generous offer to give something back to their town has never been more welcome and needed than it is now.

Named after a lyric in their 2021 single, How Beautiful Life Can Be, the Chance to See fund will be managed by Curious Minds on behalf of Culture Unlocked - Wigans Cultural Education Partnership.

Monies raised will be directed to established youth and community providers in the local area, to implement creative activities and programmes, bringing the light of creative expression to more young lives.

At a launch event held in the bands home town of Wigan, an invited audience of young people from local schools were given a rare opportunity to watch the band soundcheck for their upcoming shows, followed by some food and an intimate acoustic performance.